DAVENPORT — Students from John F. Kennedy Catholic School and their partner residents at Good Samaritan nursing home decorated cookies for a good cause and continued their bonding experience.
On April 30 the students arrived at the nursing home as they do every Monday during the school year. Students and residents sat across from each other talking about a variety of subjects while decorating cookies for patrons of Father Conroy’s Vineyard of Hope in Davenport. The group decorated more than 200 cookies and each decorator was allowed one cookie as a treat.
Eighth-grade students from JFK have worked with Good Samaritan residents for years. Because of the large size of the eighth-grade class, one section goes first semester and a second section goes second semester.
Resident Kathryn Owens said it was a fun activity to decorate cookies for others. “The best part is getting to eat the last one.”
When she learned that she was selected to partner up with a student on a weekly basis, she was nervous, but has enjoyed getting to know her student partner, Carmen Bauer. Carmen said she enjoys hearing stories from Kathryn. “Oh, I forgot to bring you a picture of my eighth-grade schoolhouse,” Kathryn said. “I’ll bring it next week.”
Resident Rose Corbett said it is “absolutely outstanding” to have the students visit. “I look forward to it every week. We are blessed to have them come. I love it.” Her student partner this semester is Stefani Metzger. “I look forward to coming every week,” Stefani said as they frosted cookies.
Resident Margaret Loter said she’s had six JFK partners and “I love it. I have pictures of all of them.” Her student this time is David Gorzney. “I really enjoy it,” he said. “It’s nice to talk and learn how she is feeling and what life was like for them. It’s fun.”
Students decorate cookies four times per year with the residents.

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